Excerpts from a 1997 interview by Long Riders Magazine Illinois Representative Jeff Green, interviewing Mario Nieves, National President and founder of the Latin American Motorcycle Association (LAMA) Headquarters in Chicago, Illinois.

Mario: From the time we started, we have had just about everyone; Croatian, Arabic, Polish, and every Latin American country represented somewhere along the line. Right now we have about ten. Our first treasurer was Black and we have Black members active presently. We also have two Philippines, a father and son who are the best mechanics in the Mid-West, Manny and Jesse Subida. We have always been able to appeal to all nationalities, if you look at some of our pictures, you'll see all kinds of faces. I really feel we're a cross section of America.

Mario: The smallest motorcycle required joining LAMA is a 650cc-size motorcycle. We ride all kinds of bikes. We have sport bikes, Gold Wings, Harleys, Voyagers, cruisers, and custom motorcycles of all makes. Each member has their own flavor in taste and style of machine.

Mario: A lot of people think we're strict. We have a six month probation period, which you can look at as good or bad. But I feel that if I was going to be part of an organization, I will give them six months to see if I like them or not and vice versa! We like to ride and have fun but we don't tolerate troublemakers. LAMA does not tolerate drugs or gang-banging, period.

Mario: A huge growth. (Smile) Now that we are a national motorcycle organization, we will be accepting applications for associate members. If a man or woman likes the way we ride, they can apply for a national membership. They will not wear colors, but they will receive a patch that says they're an associate member of LAMA. Remember, we like to have fun.

Mario: Our club is probably the only place you can come and know you're not going to get into a fight. First, in our clubhouse we absolutely do not tolerate fighting among members. Secondly, if someone came to our clubhouse and started a fight we would not take sides, we would grab both of them and put them outside and lock the door. So if you came with your wife or girlfriend you know you're there for a good time. The minute you walk through the door, you are one of our brothers. But remember, we also ask people to come with the same attitude! If being nice fails, keep in mind, we're still men.

Mario: LAMA has been fortunate in the years to have very good leadership. I am the founder, but I am not the only one with good leadership. That accounts for a lot of the high moral. If you're going to own motorcycles and do things that are fun -that will make you highly motivated. On the other hand, if you sit at a bar all day and sip beer, that will do nothing but motivate you to sit in a tavern all day.

Mario: That makes me proud, but you have to understand we've earned it. We have been to motorcycle rodeos with 85 riders. When we ride on the highway, nobody gets out of line; nobody goofs around -passing traffic looks at us and says there goes a nice group. We don't make fools of ourselves on the highway. If you're not a pest, people are going to respect you. And remember, people don't remember faces, they remember colors. Once they see your colors, that's what carries around the country. (Smiling) I feel that we have the greatest colors in the world. Also, our clubhouse is open 7 days a week. It's a pit stop for anybody. Anybody who rides and comes in peace is welcome.

Mario: That's a very good question. You are probably the only person to ask me that and believe it or not, I already have that in mind. I feel that by the turn of the century, we're going to be an organization well respected throughout the Western Hemisphere! Presently, every club in the Mid-West knows who we are and now more people in the U.S. and the Caribbean are finding out about us. If I'm still alive in the year 2000, the National Rally will be held in Chicago.

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